COMPENDIUM ON FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE - Flipbook - Page 550
● Books: "The Autoimmune Solution" by Amy Myers, MD
● Websites: The Autoimmune Association
(www.autoimmune.org)
● Support Groups: Specific to their condition and findings [34]
Recent Research Updates
Recent studies continue to strengthen the connection between
pathogens and autoimmunity. Key findings from 2023-2025 include
[35]:
● SARS-CoV-2 and Autoimmunity: Multiple studies have
documented molecular mimicry between SARS-CoV-2
proteins and human tissues, potentially triggering or
exacerbating autoimmune conditions including thyroiditis,
neurological disorders, and rheumatological conditions [36].
● Gut Microbiome Connections: Research has identified
specific gut bacteria that can either promote or protect
against autoimmunity through molecular mimicry
mechanisms, highlighting the importance of comprehensive
GI pathogen screening [37].
● Epstein-Barr Virus and Multiple Sclerosis: A landmark 2022
study in Science provided compelling evidence that EBV
infection is a leading cause of multiple sclerosis, with 99.5% of
MS cases showing evidence of prior EBV infection [38].
● Periodontal Pathogens and Systemic Autoimmunity: New
research demonstrates how oral pathogens like P. gingivalis
can trigger systemic autoimmune reactions through
citrullination of proteins, particularly relevant for rheumatoid
arthritis [39].
● Advanced Imaging Techniques: Novel imaging methods
have visualized how pathogen-specific T cells can
cross-react with self-antigens, providing direct evidence of
molecular mimicry in living systems [40].
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